NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday that New York will be forming a new partnership with Puerto Rico to boost mental health services across the state and on the island.
The governor made the announcement during a tour of Concilio de Salud Integral de Loiza in Loiza, Puerto Rico.
According to Hochul, the partnership among the Governor's Office, CUNY, SUNY, the Institute for Disaster Mental Health at SUNY New Paltz and the University of Puerto Rico will “establish a network of disaster mental health professionals across New York and Puerto Rico through a collaborative training project.”
Hochul said the assistance is being offered after the COVID-19 pandemic, and other disasters, revealed the importance of accessible mental health services.
“The rapid onset of COVID-19 combined with increased instance of natural disasters prove just how important it is to be prepared for unprecedented circumstances,” Hochul said.
“In particular these experiences have shone a bright light on the importance of mental wellness and I'm proud to launch this partnership with Puerto Rico to boost mental health resources. Having trained professionals waiting in the wings will prove invaluable in the event of future disasters,” she added.
As part of the program, a 3-credit graduate course, “Disaster Mental Health Field Experience,” will be offered by SUNY New Paltz and held at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras campus.
During the course, students from SUNY, CUNY and the University of Puerto Rico will receive training in disaster mental health theory and practice. They will also have practical experience in community-based organizations throughout the island.
“New York State has had a long, special relationship with Puerto Rico,” said State Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky. “We share so many common bonds, and this collaborative training program will prepare the next generation of professional mental health counselors as they assist survivors of disasters and provide support in times of great need.”
According to Hochul’s office, the course will be offered twice: once over the 2021-2022 winter break, and once during Summer 2022.
The course will be taught by Dr. Amy Nitza, director of the Institute for Disaster Mental Health at SUNY New Paltz.